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Neil, 68, who is stepping down, said: "I loved presenting Sunday Politics, it was a privilege and honour to hold the political discourse up to the light for all those years and while I will miss it greatly I am delighted to continue to work for the BBC on This Week, Daily Politics and other projects.

"I wish Sarah the best of luck with this challenging and wonderful production."

Neil has been the BBC One programme's main presenter since its launch in January 2012.

Smith said: "Andrew is one of the great political interviewers who leaves big shoes to fill. I am thrilled to take on this role at such an exciting time in British politics.

"I am very much looking forward to working with the Sunday Politics team. For me now, if it is a Sunday it's the Sunday Politics."

Neil will continue to have a major role at the BBC presenting Daily Politics and This Week.

Smith worked as a graduate production trainee at BBC Scotland, contributing to programmes including Good Morning Scotland and Head On, before working for the BBC in Northern Ireland.